Dresden Files · #15.1

Brief Cases

Name: Brief Cases
Rating: 8.33 (3 reviews)
Author: Jim Butcher

Jim Butcher

Fantasy Urban Fantasy Short Stories

8.3 / 10

3 ratings

An all-new Dresden Files story headlines this urban fantasy short story collection starring the Windy City's favorite wizard.

The world of Harry Dresden, Chicago's only professional wizard, is rife with intrigue - and creatures of all supernatural stripes. And you'll make their intimate acquaintance as Harry delves into the dark side of truth, justice, and the American way in this must-have short story collection.

From the Wild West to the bleachers at Wrigley Field, humans, zombies, incubi, and even fey royalty appear, ready to blur the line between friend and foe. In the never-before-published "Zoo Day," Harry treads new ground as a dad, while fan-favorite characters Molly Carpenter, his onetime apprentice, White Council Warden Anastasia Luccio, and even Bigfoot stalk through the pages of more classic tales.

With twelve stories in all, Brief Cases offers both longtime fans and first-time readers tantalizing glimpses into Harry's funny, gritty, and unforgettable realm, whetting their appetites for more to come from the wizard with a heart of gold.

The collection includes:

*  "Curses", from THE NAKED CITY, edited by Ellen Datlow
  *  "AAAA Wizardry", from the Dresden Files RPG
  *  "Even Hand", from DARK AND STORMY KNIGHTS, edited by P. N. Elrod
  *  "B is for Bigfoot", from UNDER MY HAT: TALES FROM THE CAULDRON, edited by Jonathan Strahan. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT
  *  "I was a Teenage Bigfoot", from BLOOD LITE 3: AFTERTASTE, edited by Kevin J. Anderson. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT.
  *  "Bigfoot on Campus", from HEX APPEAL, edited by P. N. Elrod. Republished in WORKING FOR BIGFOOT.
  *  "Bombshells", from DANGEROUS WOMEN, edited by George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois
  *  "Jury Duty", from UNBOUND, edited by Shawn Speakman
  *  "Cold Case", from SHADOWED SOULS, edited by Jim Butcher and Kerrie Hughes
  *  "Day One", from UNFETTERED II, edited by Shawn Speakman
  *  "A Fistful of Warlocks", from STRAIGHT OUTTA TOMBSTONE, edited by David Boop
  *  "Zoo Day" - brand-new novella, original to this collection

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Published: June 4, 2018

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Dresden Files

The series

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The Dresden Files series is a thrilling urban fantasy saga that blends magic, mystery, and high-stakes adventure with a dash of humor and heart. Set in modern-day Chicago, the series follows Harry Dresden, the only professional wizard listed in the phone book. As a private investigator and supernatural consultant, Dresden faces a world filled with magical creatures, dark forces, and dangerous secrets, all while trying to maintain his moral compass in the face of overwhelming odds. With over 15 novels and numerous short stories, this bestselling series has become a cornerstone of contemporary fantasy.

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At the heart of The Dresden Files is Harry Dresden, a wise-cracking, flawed, yet incredibly likable protagonist. Armed with his magical skills, a sharp wit, and an unwavering sense of justice, Dresden must navigate the murky world of supernatural politics, battling everything from vengeful spirits to ancient vampires. Along the way, he is joined by a memorable cast of characters, including loyal friends, reluctant allies, and dangerous enemies, each adding depth and complexity to the series. Whether he's teaming up with the enigmatic police officer Karrin Murphy or facing off against powerful, ancient beings, Dresden's journey is as much about personal growth and survival as it is about unraveling the mysteries of the magical world.

The series expertly balances action-packed scenes, deep character development, and rich world-building, creating an immersive reading experience that keeps fans coming back for more. Butcher’s unique storytelling style, filled with snappy dialogue and fast-paced plot twists, has earned The Dresden Files a devoted global fan base. The world itself is a fascinating mix of ancient magic, dark supernatural creatures, and the gritty reality of urban life, making it a perfect blend of detective noir and fantasy.

In addition to its thrilling narrative, the series has garnered critical acclaim for its ability to evolve and grow with each installment. Butcher's clever integration of both long-running story arcs and episodic cases makes the series engaging for both new readers and long-time fans. The novels have earned multiple New York Times bestseller rankings and have been adapted into graphic novels and a television series, further expanding the Dresden Files universe.

With its mix of supernatural intrigue, action-packed adventures, and endearing characters, The Dresden Files is a standout in the urban fantasy genre. For fans of epic adventures, magical detective stories, and witty protagonists, it’s a must-read series that continues to captivate readers worldwide. Whether you're new to the world of Harry Dresden or a long-time fan, this series offers a magical and thrilling experience like no other.